Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Luxury Jewelry

I try to be price-conscious when I make my jewelry. I am well-acquainted with my customer base and know what they like and what they are comfortable spending, and I choose my components accordingly. I love handmade lampwork glass, intricate sterling silver, and gemstones, and I've gotten fairly good at creating a body of work that covers a reasonable price range.

Sometimes, though, I throw caution to the wind and with wild abandon, go for luxury.

I just posted the above piece on my web site last night. It's absolutely amazing if I do say so myself. The pendant is a large piece of rare larimar set in sterling silver, accented with a cultured white pearl and a faceted amethyst. I made lots of tiny pale amethyst dangles to cluster around deeper amethyst ovals and more cultured pearls. The result is really stunning -- and of course there's a price tag to it.

I worry when I make things like this, because at $380 it's definitely out of my normal price range. But I believe that for every piece of jewelry I make, there's someone out there for it. Case in point, the necklace below.....

I posted this necklace on my blog some time ago, never planning to put it on my web site because I was afraid the price would scare people off. But one of my customers saw it on the blog, emailed me, and it's now in a new home.

The point of this post is to say to fellow designers -- be you painter, sculptor, jewelry designer, any type of artist -- don't be afraid to take a chance. I've made a commitment to myself for the coming year to push my boundaries and try new things, and sometimes, designing without limitations can bring surprises. I'm still cognizant of my target market and I certainly don't want to alienate my loyal customers, but a little exploration is good for the soul.

I'm always very price conscious when I make a piece...like you I do know my customers price range...on occasion I'll over step! I do have to say though, one of my favorite beads are lampwork but my customers don't want to pay the price...I've tried many times...

Merry Christmas to you and yours, may you have a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season!Cheers

I LOVE the necklace and I DO agree with you. It's waiting for that someone special to come along. AND...they will!!!

I try to make a mix of things too. Some that take forever and some that are a little bit easier. I just go with my mood I guess... AND the right buyer WILL come along...no matter the price range! Some just may sit a bit longer.

I feel the same. Most of my work stays in the range my customer base can support...but there are always those pieces that make there way in. They either end up living with me or find a home with the person they were meant for. Thank you for stopping by my blog and for your kind words. I thought the same things about crocheting with wire but have encountered few problems so far...and then mostly with earrings. One of my goals in the new year is to try more patterns and learn enough to come up with a few of my own. :-)I hope you had a very happy holiday.

LoriYour necklaces are beautiful..and I do think of you when I think of "luxury jewelry"! You always use such quality pieces...that are unique and beautiful. This is a great post...to consider going out of one's comfort zone as far as price ranges. I ought to just "go for it" too...some day.

both pieces are wonderful. I can see why it was nabbed up before you even put it in your shop. And I think you are correct in saying the right person will be out there for the new piece. Beautiful work!